Revierpark Vonderort is one of five regional parks spanning the Ruhr Valley. Originally envisioned in the 1970s by Gustav and Rose Wörner, this 32-hectare landscape underwent comprehensive revitalization as part of the "Future and Home Regional Parks 2020" initiative. ST-Freiraum Landschaftsarchitekten's design philosophy was distinctly holistic: seamlessly integrate open spaces, elevate recreational and educational amenities, and ensure universal accessibility so that all members of the community can enjoy the park.

The park bifurcates into northern and southern zones, each anchored by its own design narrative. Unifying these realms is the Nature Loop—an educational trail and movement corridor comprising ten stations where environmental learning converges with physical activity. The north exemplifies "sport and movement," capitalizing on a striking beech forest canopy. The fun sports arena, its signature feature, showcases an ambitious climbing landscape of boulders framed by elliptical arrangements of crimson robinia posts. At its core sits the Multirock, a terraced climbing structure combining natural stone faces, smooth concrete walls, and challenging overhangs. Complementing this are dynamic elements including outdoor trampolines, balance games, an inclusive seating platform, and a boules court. The south tells a different story: "preservation with purpose." Here, the design team carefully safeguarded the forecourt's heritage-protected raised beds and existing stairs—the traditional gateway to the leisure center. A serpentine path winds gracefully through the southern expanse, providing barrier-free access to richly planted perennial gardens and striking viewpoints. The promenade's thoughtfully placed seating invites lingering; restored table tennis and chess tables enhance the social fabric. A sprawling lawn accommodates both relaxation and play, with occasional park events bringing the space to life. Dense shrubland frames the lawn's eastern edge, gradually yielding to a more natural woodland character that cradles a series of ponds. Along the northern shore, an expanded plaza anchors a striking cantilevered concrete boardwalk—an ideal vantage for spotting distant kingfishers. Deep within the beech forest, a circular gathering space offers a sanctuary for contemplation, learning, and ecological discovery. Throughout, dimmable LED fixtures mounted on elegantly curved poles illuminate pathways, with selective lighting zones preserving darkness in unused areas after hours. The entire project exemplifies sustainable construction principles: excavated soil informed the serpentine topography, and reclaimed clinker pavers found new purpose across the site.

www.st-freiraum.de

Photography:
ST-Freiraum

(From CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|24)